Riding the waves that come into your life will allow you to experience the fullness of God’s will.
I don’t surf. I can’t even swim, so thinking about riding my own wave is scary. What will I do if I fall from the board? Will I have enough strength to keep my balance and get to shore? Seeing the waves come at us can be either scary or thrilling. How do you see the waves that come at you? Is your perspective that it’s not fair you got your board or that your wave is too big? Or is your view one that trusts God; knowing that He creates waves with a purpose in mind?
I may not actually surf on the ocean, but I’m definitely surfing the waves that God creates in my life. One thing that I’ve learned is that it’s impossible to live a life of abundance if I ride someone else’s wave. I’m not saying you can’t ride with someone else. In fact, it is possible and it may be fun for a while, but it limits your potential. It slows you down. It may also be necessary at the beginning to get instruction in order for you to be comfortable and increase your confidence, but at some point, you will need to ride your own board. Watch this video of most people riding a surfboard – it is funny and it will make my point clear. Notice how it’s difficult for some to keep their balance and how the board is slowed down.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBzhCs8smnA
Have you been hanging on to another surfer’s board, riding their wave? Or have you allowed someone else to ride your board? We may do this with friends, family, co-workers, spouses or children. How is that possible? Here are a few examples:
- My good feelings about who I am stem from being liked and receiving approval from others – (You struggle with self-acceptance and need other’s approval)
- My serenity is affected by the struggles of others around me – (You get overwhelmed or worry when seeing other people’s waves)
- My mental energy is focused on solving the problems of others, relieving their pain, pleasing or protecting others – (You worry more about other’s experience riding their wave than your own experience)
- My attention is focused on manipulating others “to do it my way” – (You are so caught up in wanting to take control of someone else’s board, when you should be focusing on your own)
- My self-worth is bolstered by solving other’s problems and relieving their pain - (You love to help others, but neglect helping yourself)
- I am not aware of how I feel or what I want – I am aware of how others feel and what they want - (You tend to react to how others feel and allow that to influence your own emotional state)
Did any of the above sound familiar? If so, you may find yourself in a desperate state. You may have lost your sense of identity – Who you are. That’s what happens when you ride someone else’s wave. But the wisdom that comes from your own experiences is invaluable. Riding the waves that come into your life will allow you to experience the fullness of God’s will. God promises to be with you. He says in Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” You are never riding that wave alone! He is always with you!
So next time you see that wave coming, go with it… ride it! It’s your wave!
Rest in His Word: Matthew 14:22-33
“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said.” (NIV)
Heart Checkup:
- Have I been listening to the voice of God in the midst of the waves coming at me?
- What are the fears that keep me from riding my wave and trusting in God?
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